EU and IDEA Support Capacity Building for Children’s Parliament in Anambra State
By O. J. Udemezue
Awka, Anambra State – May 25, 2024
In preparation for the upcoming Children’s Day celebration, the European Union (EU) and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) have funded a capacity-building program for the Anambra State Children’s Parliament. The program, which took place at Western Meloch Hotel, Awka, from May 25-26, aimed to equip members of the Children’s Parliament with leadership, advocacy, and governance skills to enable them to effectively represent the interests of children in the state.
The training, facilitated by experts from IDEA, covered topics such as child rights, parliamentary procedures, and policy analysis. The participants also engaged in mock parliamentary sessions, where they debated and passed resolutions on issues affecting children in the state.
The EU and IDEA’s support for the Children’s Parliament is part of their broader commitment to promoting democracy, human rights, and sustainable development in Nigeria. “We are proud to support the Anambra State Children’s Parliament,” said EU Representative, Josephine Onah. “Empowering children to take an active role in governance is crucial for building a more inclusive and equitable society.”
The Children’s Parliament is a youth-led initiative that provides a platform for children to engage in democratic processes and advocate for their rights. The parliament has been instrumental in promoting children’s participation in governance and holding leaders accountable for their actions.
The capacity-building program has equipped the members of the Children’s Parliament with the skills and knowledge they need to effectively represent the interests of children in Anambra State. As the state prepares to celebrate Children’s Day, the EU and IDEA’s support is a timely reminder of the importance of investing in the next generation of leaders.
The highlight of the occasion was the arrival of the Permanent Secretary for Education, Mrs. Chinwe Achugbu, who commended the EU and IDEA for their support and encouraged the children to take their roles seriously. Mrs. Achugbu emphasized the importance of empowering children to become active citizens and leaders of tomorrow.
The Speaker of the Children’s Parliament, Rt. Hon. Victory Ekwunife, in her Vote of Thanks, expressed her gratitude to the EU and IDEA for their support. “Your Excellencies, Honorable Guests, Distinguished Participants, and Fellow Members of the Children’s Parliament, I stand before you today, filled with gratitude and joy, as we conclude this capacity-building program sponsored by the European Union and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA).
First and foremost, I want to express my deepest appreciation to the EU and IDEA for believing in us, the children of Anambra State, and investing in our future. Your support has empowered us to become active citizens and leaders, and we are forever grateful. To our facilitators and trainers, thank you for sharing your expertise and guiding us through this journey. Your dedication and passion for our growth are truly inspiring.
To my fellow members of the Children’s Parliament, I am proud of each and every one of you. We have learned so much together, and I am confident that we will continue to work tirelessly to promote the rights and well-being of children in our state. Finally, to our parents, teachers, and guardians, thank you for your unwavering support and encouragement. We could not have done this without you. Thank you all once again, and let us continue to work together to build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come. Thank you!”
